Dean's Update: A Philly Spirit of Collaboration

February 6, 2018

The impact of collaboration has taken over the city of Philadelphia, as the preparation of this issue of In Circulation coincides with the Eagles’ Superbowl LII victory. “GO EAGLES” has become standard greeting and tribute for the past few weeks, whether on building illuminations and retail window dressings, in emails and formal correspondences, or through worn attire and chanted phrases.

Aside from the euphoria celebrated in the streets till early morning, there were noticeable smiles and happy nods shared among unmet residents getting back to routines Monday in Eagles Nation.No one felt like a stranger. Regardless if you were an avid fan – some waiting a lifetime for this trophy – or a critic of the health dangers of football, it seemed impossible not to be drawn into the pride and uplifting spirit this team’s stunning collaboration created.With three million people expected to attend the parade for the team later this week, the power of coming together will be manifested again as a character of our community.

On a smaller scale, but no less powerful, the collaboration trait – to come together to achieve something – is characteristic of libraries and the experiences they foster. This issue of In Circulation illustrates this trait in action at the Drexel Libraries.

Working with the Office of Research, the Libraries was able to promote the benefits of institutional membership in ICPSR, a highly admired organization in Michigan that helps researchers manage and access research in the social sciences through working together.The new Libraries Fellows program explores how to more deeply partner with faculty to achieve strategic contributions to the University.Collaborating with the AIAA Student Chapter has helped inspire Drexel engineering students looking to information resources and guidance from the Libraries in the self-directed mastery of literacy skills.An interview with a faculty member attests to the rewards of partnering with a library liaison and the Libraries’ service infrastructure to expand Public Health professionals’ success in navigating the changing information landscape.

Long after the parade and front page news pass, the spirit in the air and the highly visible collaborative character of the community will continue here in the Libraries, as we continue to find new ways to encourage team work among our staff, build partnerships with Drexel faculty, explore collaborations with students, and extend shared expertise with professional colleagues and associations.But what a great moment to watch this trait bring so many together.